WritingMrWrong by KelleyArmstrong is a 3.8⭐️ read.

Love the way the author covered the topic of dyslexia, being someone with dyslexia I can confirm that my world has opened up drastically since audiobooks have become a way of life. Coming from someone who loves books, however could only mange two of three books at year, and now on average I can read / listen to over 200 books a year thanks to audiobooks. My heart warmed while reading/ listening to this story.

The story itself was well done, a good level of heart and heat, with a character driven plot. Seeing both the FMC and the MMC face their issues, and grow gave a sense of balance to the tension and the emotional parts of the story.

This is a good summer read/ listen for 2025.

Favourite Quote: “He remembered her well enough to know he would lose any fingers that made contact without permission.”

I received an advance copy of the audio book for review. I love all of Kelley Armstrong’s books. I was really excited for this one, but surprised it was the hockey player trope and not sure how much I would like it. I absolutely loved the book. The ending was perfect, and I think my favorite character was Grandma!

2 stars ⋆✴︎˚｡⋆

honestly this book was just okay. The characters didn’t really stand out to me and neither did the plot of the book. It was a quick read and was definitely enjoyable but also flat somehow.

I think the narrators Patricia Santomasso & Sean Patrick Hopkins were definitely the reason I keep on reading. Without them I think I would have soft dnf’ed simply because the book was a bit boring.

Writing Mr. Wrong was such a fun, happy and uplifting read. After reading some books with heavy subject matter this book is the perfect palate cleanser to refresh and recharge and will leave a smile on your face.

As someone who has been involved in the hockey world, this was a great fit for me. It combined a sport that I love with a heart happy romance. Gemma is a writer who has just released a romance novel. In her search to write the perfect male lead, she decided to skip the nice guy and go with “Mr. Wrong,” based on her childhood crush, turned professional hockey player who hurt her many years ago. The two have an unexpected and very public reunion which goes viral and has everyone swooning. To garner some publicity for Gemma’s new book, Mason suggests the two go out on a fake date to keep the buzz going.

The characters in this book are messy and relatable. They are so well written with the perfect balance of perfection and flaws. The witty banter had me laughing at times and while I loved Gemma and Mason for so many reasons, I adored Gemma’s grandmother and the woman from the plane (when you get there, you will totally understand!!). Also, Gemma in the airport…bravo!!

This book was simply charming. I listened to the audio version and kudos to the narrators Patricia Santomasso and Sean Patrick Hopkins as well as the entire production team for a job well done. This story was brought to life brilliantly and left me with a smile so big that I want to set it on repeat and listen all over again.

Thank you to Hachette Audio for the ALC of this book. It was such a delightful and charming listen.

This is an ultra cute second chance romance. Gemma, a new divorcee and romance novelist and Mason a hockey star, have known each other since they were kids. They reunite after Gemma bases her novel on bad boy Mason.

4 stars!

Many thanks to Net Galley and Hachette Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I just received this ARC today and Ive already finished it. This book and audio were both so good and addicting. My biggest criticism of this book is just a personal preference of not liking how aloof and mindless Mason was in the beginning of this book. It was frustrating and showed his selfishness. I did enjoy his progression and found it to very realistic. By the end of this book he was a perfect book boyfriend. I loved Gemmas character. I love that she was smart and pragmatic, and sometimes sassy. I enjoyed that this was something that Mason liked about her. I felt that I identified with Gemma in a lot of ways and it made this book even better for me. Thank you Forever publishing for this ARC!

I absolutely lovedddd Finding Mr Write last year and have forced every romance reader I know to pick it up. That being said I was soooo excited for this one and it fell completely flat.

This book was utterly boring and I really didn’t see the point of it. The characters were extremely immature and stuck in high school. The drama/conflict was so ridiculous. Add in some miscommunication and you get 2 dimensional characters that I just couldn’t care less about.

I also found it extremely unbelievable that anyone would have figured out she was writing about a certain nhl hockey star. It sounded like it was extremely vague and could have taken inspiration from anyone with those personality traits. I also hated that her ex husband continued to call her to talk about her new situationship. They didn’t have kids so there was absolutely no reason for them to be in touch.

Overall I really really really disliked this book and now I’m really really really sad

Another great novel from Kelley Armstrong. I love that she can write multiple genres and still make it a hit!

Gemma hasn’t written in years, but post-divorce, she dove back into writing romance. When her proposal didn’t sell, she became convinced it was because no one wanted her nice-guy heroes and decided to write and absolute Mr. Wrong…based on her first crush, Mason Moretti, now a star hockey player. She’s sure no one will make the connection between her highland laird and an NHL enforcer. Of course, someone does, and her secret is out.

Mason is going through some drama of his own as an aging hockey player, and when his “reunion-cute” with Gemma goes viral, he proposes some media-worthy fake dating to help her book. Which is so sweet and not at all to help solve his own image problem. Gemma reluctantly agrees. Mason convinces Gemma to go away with him so she can finish her overdue second book while giving him anti-asshole lessons. And if he really just wants to get time away with her, that’s not an bad move, right? Or is it?

Wow! This is the first book I've read of Kelley Armstrong's, but click over to her author's website to see her prolific backlist. It looks like she writes all kinds of genres, heavy in mystery, suspense, fantasy, and even horror. There are only two romcoms on there, and Writing Mr. Wrong is one of them. When I requested this audiobook from netgalley I had no idea what a seasoned author I was electing to take on, but it certainly blew me away. Now I've got all those others to add to my TBR.

Reader problems!

So Writing Mr. Wrong is about two mid-thirties kids who once went to school together. They had a will-they-won't-they moment once that still haunts them, because they definitely won't-they'd. A kiss born of genuine friendship and attraction turned into public mockery, and Gemma is still so upset about it post-messy-divorce that she used Mason as the inspiration to pen her debut romance novel that is just releasing. As part of the promo, a local TV show has her on and surprises her with an appearance from now pro hockey star Mason, who strikes an undeniable likeness to the highlander on her cover (by complete coincidence...right?). While the anchor tries to make this a humiliating moment for Gemma, Mason smoothes it all over with ease, and the public is here.for.it. Turns out Gemma's prick of an ex-husband is a huge Mason Moretti fan, so when his PR suggests a harmless night out to fuel some gossip, she agrees.

This book is a masterclass in nuance. Mason has a golden heart, but he's like a clumsy little puppy, doing everything in the exact wrong way despite his good intentions. He leaves a trail of wreckage behind him and can't understand what he's doing wrong. Sometimes he does bad things. Things that hurt people. But he's not a bad person. Gemma knows Mason better than most, having worked with him at the school newspaper once upon a time. She knows he means well, and agrees to help 'coach' him through some of the problematic ideas he's come up with, helping him see how he comes off to others.

I was honestly floored by how good this book was. The premise had the potential to be just another cheesy love story without a terrible amount of depth. Instead, we're let into the intimacies of the relationship between these two imperfect humans and get to see them slowly navigate this meeting of their new selves. It feels natural. It feels authentic. It's a joy to read. They both choose honesty, and that allows them to understand one another deeply, cleanse their pasts, and embrace a new, strong, future.

I really could go on and on about this one, but it is a solid 5 star read, and the reason I hold out and rate the majority of books with 4 stars. That last star means there's something special, and folks, this one has it. The X-factor. The chops of a seasoned author. A delight to read. Thank you Kelley Armstrong. Can't wait to see what else you've got up your sleeves of romance!

I listened to this as an audiobook and both narrators were amazing! Patricia Santomasso had Gemma's sort of cynical tone down wonderfully, and I'm going to keep my eye out for more Sean Patrick Hopkins...it was delightful.

Note:: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This audiobook had everything I typically look for when it comes to listening experience. Both narrators were great, they had emotion behind their reading and nothing felt overly done. Always a plus when speaking parts are read by the appropriate parties!

Some things I loved:
* Jesse - we love a guy who encourages consent 👏
* He falls first - kindergarten!! 🥺
* Disability rep - Dyslexic MMC who reads audiobooks
* MCs are aged 35+
* A divorcee FMC who takes her power back 🫰🏻
* Grandma Dot 💁‍♀️

This one was a slooooooow burn 🔥 Spice really only started at 80% and even then, it was brief. Not a huge deal, but if you came for smut, I’d say it’s open door, but definitely not plentiful.

I feel like the past between the MCs was fully developed and as a reader, I appreciated that. As for the present… I felt it lacked the same realization as the past. You get glimpses of why the couple works, but it’s really a lot of Mason fumbling the ball (puck?) and Gemma making excuses for him.

Mason wants to learn and grow - somehow self aware but also not - which is what kept me rooting for him. Somewhere along the way, I just feel like the plot got a little lost, and with it, Gemma’s character development took a hit. It was kind of the Mason show and I wanted more from Gemma.

Otherwise, it was a fun, cute read that I blew through in a day. I could see this one being a beach read for this summer!

The Basics:
Professional Hockey Player 🏒 // Teacher/Author ✍️
3rd Person Dual POV - Duet
Standalone
HEA 🤍
🌶️🌶️/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5

Thank you to Hachette Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review 🤍🎧

4.5⭐️
SUM: Fast-paced, heartfelt, and full of emotional depth! A grounded romance with mature characters and zero cliché drama.

This was my first book by Kelley Armstrong - and what a great introduction! 👏
Does it try to be overly dramatic or trope-heavy? 😅 NOP! And that’s the best part.
No silly third-act breakup here—just honesty, growth, and chemistry.

Favourite quote:
“Love isn't about fixing someone. It's about seeing their flaws and loving them anyway.”

💕 Read if you like:
– Emotionally mature romance 🧠
– Flawed but lovable characters 💔
– No overdone drama 🚫
– Fast-paced, clean storytelling ⏩

Spiceometer: 🌶🌶🌶 (moderate, emotional heat)

⚠️ TW: mild language, emotional baggage, adult themes

This was such a cute second chance, fake-dating romcom with just the right amount of heart. I love a good “oops, I based my book’s toxic male lead on my hot ex” plot. And Mason? Total grumpy hockey player with a soft spot for one woman only. That man was written to be swooned over.

Gemma had that relatable chaos energy and her inner monologue had me cackling. Her banter with Mason? Chef’s kiss. Also, their trip away together? Yes, give me all the secluded writing cabin vibes. I was rooting for their messy, slow burn from start to finish.

It was easy to fly through and left me smiling. Would recommend if you like fake dating with real feelings sneaking in when no one’s looking. Cute, funny, and a little spicy.

Gemma may have sort of based the MMC of her debut novel on Mason Moretti, the hockey star she went to high school with who kissed her and then didn't quash the rumors that he'd done it on a dare. But when she agreed to do a tv segment to promote her book, she didn't expect the host to invite Mason as well and tell him—and the world—that her character was based on him. And she definitely didn't expect Mason to suggest that the two of them fake a relationship for the good publicity they both need. But as they start spending more time together, old feelings become harder to ignore.
I. Ate. This. Book. UP. Absolutely LOVED it. Mason trying to be less of an asshole, Gemma trying to figure out what she wants and how to get it while protecting her heart, it was all so good. And Patricia Santomasso and Sean Patrick Hopkins both did a phenomenal job with the narration, which definitely added to the experience.

TW for a former controlling relationship and past miscarriages

Quick Summary: A second chance to get it right women's fiction/romance

My Review: Writing Mr. Wrong by Kelley Armstrong is a contemporary fiction novel. It is scheduled for release on 6/24/25.

About the Book: "...a second-chance rom-com about a debut author who unexpectedly goes viral when readers discover her hero was inspired by a beloved pro hockey player—and her high school crush."

In My Own Words: Once upon a time friends turned enemies reunite live on stage. Once they mutually decide to fake date, they realize that there has always been something left unsaid between them. They soon find that there is more to their story.

About the Lead Characters: Gemma and Mason were inevitable. I loved that they were both imperfect and a bit insecure. I also really loved that the author chose to feature a neurodivergent lead.

About the Secondary Characters: The cast of characters were likable, supportive, and even hilarious.

The Funniest Character: Gemma's grandmother

Most Appreciated Extra: Mental health nod

About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by Patricia Santomasso and Sean Patrick Hopkins. Their rhythm and colorful tones kept the story interesting.

My Final Say: I really liked this feel good love story. It was light, easy, and endearing. The second chance angle really worked for this couple. I appreciated their differences, especially in terms of their backgrounds. All in all, this novel was entirely entertaining.

Other: Readers who enjoy the following tropes should like this story.

Tropes - >

Second chance
Fake dating
Childhood friends
Enemies to lovers
Hockey romance
Professional writer/teacher and athlete

Rating: 3.75/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: 👍
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +

Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Hachette Audio | Forever), and to NetGalley for providing access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I very much appreciate the opportunity. Please know that my review has been voluntarily submitted.

Second chance romance
Hockey player MMC
Romance author FMC
Fake dating
3rd person POV

Duet narration - Patricia Santomasso & Sean Patrick Hopkins

My first book by Kelley Armstrong and I think I’m a forever fan. I’m not usually a fan of 3rd person POV but the duet narration definitely helped a ton.

This was a fun listen. Great character development and story line.

Gemma is a debut romance author who based her MMC on a boy from high school. An interview reconnects them.

Mason is a famous hockey player who is getting older and not sure how long he will play. He’s recently gotten some bad press but attending an interview for Gemma’s book sparks a new opportunity.

Really enjoyed this book. It’s not super spicy but there are hints and glimpses in there.

I'm a sucker for second chance romances, and Writing Mr. Wrong was a cute listen, if not a bit predictable.

Not my fav by Canadian author Kelley Armstrong but it was still a fun second chance sports romance between a pro hockey player and a romance author who uses her former high school crush as the inspiration for the male lead in her newest book. Good on audio and recommended for fans of books like Celebrity crush by Christy Swift. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!